The Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) kicked off the third edition of Hong Kong Fashion Fest with the dazzling CENTRESTAGE ELITES opening gala on September 2, 2026, at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC). The event, which runs from September 2 to 5, showcased a futuristic and sci-fi themed runway by KIT WAN STUDIOS, led by Hong Kong-born creative director and visual artist Kit Wan. Over 30 brand-new looks made their debut, with select pieces on display at the fairground (Booth No.: 3D-D06).
This year's CENTRESTAGE ELITES spotlighted KIT WAN STUDIOS, known for designing "stage armour" for artists such as Miriam Yeung, Hins Cheung, MC Cheung, and Panther Chan. The studio's work has graced global stages like the Grammy Awards in Los Angeles and Eurovision in the United Kingdom, bringing Hong Kong design to international prominence. The show also featured an exhibition of seven iconic stage costumes previously created for these artists, highlighting the studio's deep ties with Hong Kong's music scene.
Rosanna Law, Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism of the HKSAR Government, attended as the Guest of Honour. The event drew a constellation of celebrities, artists, and fashion heavyweights. The after-party featured live performances by Hong Kong electronic musician hirsk and Belgian model and musician Kim Peers. The Organiser livestreamed the spectacle across multiple platforms, including the CENTRESTAGE website and Instagram.
CENTRESTAGE is open to both industry professionals and the public free of charge for four days, featuring over 40 events including more than 30 runway shows and parades. On September 4, Kit Wan will engage in a dialogue with Dan Hastings, Editor of The Business of Fashion, to discuss creative inspiration and expanding his brand overseas. This year's event consolidates Hong Kong's position as Asia's fashion capital, offering a platform for local, mainland, and international designers to connect and collaborate.
The opening gala underscored the significance of Hong Kong Fashion Fest, which runs from September 1 to 14, 2026, under the theme "Rhythm of the Heart." The festival brings together eight flagship programmes from six industry organisations, including CENTRESTAGE, to foster innovation and business opportunities. As the HKTDC celebrates its 60th anniversary, the council continues to promote Hong Kong as a two-way global investment and business hub, with over 50 offices worldwide. The Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA) sponsored this event, reinforcing its commitment to nurturing talent and facilitating cross-sectoral collaboration in Hong Kong's creative industries.
The success of CENTRESTAGE ELITES highlights the growing influence of Hong Kong designers on the global stage. Kit Wan's innovative approach to fashion, blending sci-fi aesthetics with wearable art, exemplifies the creative energy that Hong Kong Fashion Fest aims to cultivate. As the festival continues, visitors can expect a rich tapestry of events celebrating fashion design and cultural exchange, solidifying Hong Kong's reputation as the East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange.
